The The Plaid Horse September 2023 - The Fashion Issue

THE HORSE COMES

HORSE COMES FIRST

FALLCLASSIC 2023 Horse Shows

WE BELiEVE iN HEALTHY SOLUTIONS

Introducing Hoof Essentials, the only total hoof support supplement with Turmeric and Apple Cider Vinegar.

Hoof Essentials provides natural antioxidants in the form of curcumin from turmeric and quercetin from apple cider vinegar to reduce oxidative stress and support normal inflammatory processes. Turmeric and apple cider vinegar also support the “Good” gut.

Hoof Essentials is a complete supplement to provide support for all areas of the hoof from the inside out including the vascular system, tendons and sole, bone, hoof and gastrointestinal tract.

Hoof Essentials is a holistic approach to hoof health, by looking after the gut as well as targeting the hoof area, Hoof Essentials makes a difference!

Turmeric contains more than 300 active compounds, the majority of which are polyphenols with antioxidant effects.

Apple cider vinegar supports the microbiome and overall immune balance while helping to reduce oxidative stress.

Fashion CAN be functional.

At LAURACEA, we work hard to create quality, function, and beauty in every piece we design. Our newest Belt Wallet Clutch is a perfect example. Like our best-selling Convertible Backpack Tote, it can be worn several ways depending on your needs and your style. Most importantly, it is beautifully made with the utmost quality, and the option of a luxury leather or the durability of a waterproof leather. We understand that just because your life requires function, doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice style and beauty.

Quality. Function. Beauty.

@shoplauracea

Taylor Harris

The Art of Horsemanship

YOU BELONG HERE

Whether you’re trotting into the show ring, moving to a new barn, or taking your first lesson, remember this—you belong. Regardless of your discipline, body shape, show record, or breech size, Kerrits is committed to helping you feel as good on the outside as horses make you feel on the inside.

Shop your local Kerrits retailer or online at kerrits.com.

Malea & Dolly

Malea is wearing the Always Cool Ice Fil® Short Sleeve Shirt and Crossover II® Breech

THERE ARE PIECES THAT FURNISH A BARN THEN THERE ARE PIECES THAT DEFINE IT.

Science

+ Love. Helping H orses T hrive.

Our Purina PhD Nutritionists tackle problems using science. And our love of horses keeps us at it until we get it right. Even with our most established feeds, we keep innovating. Even when it takes years of research, we don’t stop until it’s right. We’re dedicated to the scientific method, but it can’t capture the feeling of seeing a horse reach their full potential It takes science and love to help your horse live their best life.

Put our research to the test at HorseInnovation.com

The Plaid Horse has been published since 2003. This is Piper Klemm’s 85th issue as Publisher since 2014.

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

PIPER KLEMM, PH.D.

Managing Editor

RENNIE DYBALL

Art Direction

L/BAILEY DESIGN

Online Editor

APRIL BILODEAU

Advertising

CLARE CIANCIO

LIZ D. HANCOX

WILLOW KAUFFMAN

DAWN KIRLIN

MAYA VARGA

Subscriptions & Plaidcast Manager

CIRA PACE MALTA

Plaidcast Production

VICTORIA SHEEHAN

Executive Assistant

PAYTON MEDFORD

CONTACT & CONNECT WITH US!

WEB: ThePlaidHorse.com

CALL: 541-905-0192

EMAIL: piper@theplaidhorse.com

FACEBOOK: facebook.com/theplaidhorsemag

THREADS: @theplaidhorsemag

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PINTEREST: pinterest.com/theplaidhorse

TIKTOK: @theplaidhorsemag

SUBSCRIPTIONS: subscriptions@theplaidhorse.com

PHOTO: JUMP MEDIA LLC

Ariana Marnell and Babylon at The Capital Challenge Horse Show 2022

The Fashion Issue

“What is in fashion this September? To accept consequences for mistakes that you make, and to do good for your horses and community in any way you can.”

KLEMM, PH.D. • PAGE 26

PHOTO AT RIGHT: SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Dr. Kelly Vineyard, Ph.D. and Purina

Animal Nutrition are dedicated to improving life for senior horses— and beyond

PHOTO BY KEITH LADZINSKI

Liza Boyd and Guess Who at The Capital Challenge Horse Show 2022

Capital Challenge Horse Show

September 28 - October 8, 2023

•$25,000 WCHR Professional Challenge sponsored by The Gochman Family

•$25,000 KASK/Vogel Green Hunter

3’ & 3’3” North American Championship sponsored by The Wheeler Family

•$25,000 WCHR Pro Finals sponsored by The Rein Family

•$10,000 WCHR Developing Pro Challenge sponsored by John R. Ingram Fund

•WCHR Challenge Classes

•NAL Hunter & Jumper Finals

•Ariat National Adult Medal Finals

•THIS National Children’s Medal Finals

•Palm Beach International Academy Junior Equitation Championship

•EMO Insurance Agency/USHJA

3’3” Jumping Seat Medal Finals

Watch it live or livestream

capitalchallenge.org

Painting of Trademark & Geoffrey Hesslink by Sharon Lynn Campbell

THE FASHION ISSUE

WHAT IS IN FASHION THIS SEPTEMBER? To do every little thing right that you can, to accept consequences for mistakes that you make, and to do good for your horses and community

in any way you can.

Our community needs to better itself, plain and simple. It is your responsibility, it is my responsibility, it is every one of our responsibilities. We do better with little things. We help out where we can see. Pick up a er yourself at the barn. Pick up a er yourself at home. Pick up a er yourself in public.

Lend a hand where you can. Spread compliments and cheer. Think about your demands and if they make the people around you better. Invest in the right people doing the right thing over the long term. Think about where you spend your money.

Think about why you are doing something, what you might want out of your horse

show, and if it is in your horse’s best interest to compete. Think about the long-term. Think about whether you are burning out your people.

No matter who we are and what we’ve done in this industry, we can all make small improvements as horsemen and women. Incremental improvements can add up to big changes. The horse comes rst. This fall, let’s all practice what we preach.

Piper Klemm, Ph.D. TPH PUBLISHER Follow me on Threads at @piperklemm

PHOTO: SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

September 2023 THE PLAID HORSE 27

AUGUST IN KENTUCKY: Piper and Reuben back in the show ring and another Pony Finals

PHOTOS: SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY (TOP 2)

The lightweight, heavy-duty ramp door assist eliminates the physical strain of opening and closing heavy ramp doors by rendering the door virtually weightless.

Unlike traditional ramp assists, the revolutionary new SAFE ASSIST is fully concealed to remove the need for dangerous cables that can snap or create a tripping hazard. The heavy-duty design utilizes an aluminum exterior for corrosion resistance.

Learn More: info.austinhardware.com/safeassist or contact us at: sales@austinhardware.com www.austinhardware.com (800) 821-3520

What is everyone without a barn family doing to make horse friends?

We loved this question posed in our Plaid Horse Adult Amateur Lounge on Facebook. And while we love our online community, we also know the value of making new friends at the barn. Here are some of our favorite answers…

—MISSY BENNIE

Talking to the barns stalled near you at the show. The other adults in your classes. It’s awkward, but if you just start talking, it works. A simple ‘your horse is so beautiful,’ or, ‘you jumped that so well,’ or ‘you have a beautiful show coat,’ can start up huge conversations. Then add them on Facebook or Instagram and it’s all starts.

—ELLIE

TONSICH

I have moved states three times as an adult and once for college. I really understand this conundrum. Unless you are really bold and can ask people out on a friend date, you need repeated contact with people to make friends. Finding a trainer and hanging around their barn after your lessons, and joining your local governance association and volunteering. Join the local trail riding group. Show up at clinics that are interesting and audit. Most importantly, start conversations. You’ll find your people.

—MELISSA SANDNESS

I talk to anyone and everyone. It’s like Oprah…YOU get a compliment! YOU get a compliment!! YOU’RE ALL GETTING COMPLIMENTS!!!

—AIMIE

BARTON

Be friendly, push yourself to talk to people, ask them about their horse, their job, family. Then ask to grab a coffee with them after the barn!

—ANN CLEARY BAKER

Volunteering was really helpful for me! I’m an eventer but there’s not much eventing in my area, so I contacted the local dressage club and volunteered with them for several years— running the warm up ring, acting as show secretary for schooling shows, helping set up and tear down, maintaining the website—different volunteer jobs put me in contact with different people. One of those dressage people introduced me to a member of the local hunt, who invited me to a hunt, which led to a totally new group of friends who I trail ride with regularly in the off-season. It can be tough to make new friends, but you’ll find them!

—STEPHANIE PECK

VOLUNTEER AT ANY SHOWS REGARDLESS OF DISCIPLINE. I RIDE H/J AND MANY OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS ARE RIDING WESTERN AND EVENTING.

Many of my horse friends are my mom’s age or older. Don’t get too hung up on finding somebody your age. Enjoy the fact that this is an excellent, multigenerational sport, and make friends with people from other disciplines.

“O er to take pictures or videos when they’re riding! Starts a conversation.” —STACEY WELLS

—CHRISTINA BOUCHER REYNOLDS

North America’s Premier Equine Exposition & Equestrian Gathering

NOV. 9–12, 2023

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA Eastern States Exposition

• An Unparalleled Educational Program.

• The Largest Horse-Related Trade Show in North America.

• The Marketplace Consignment Shop.

• The Fantasia (sponsored by Absorbine) — Equine Affaire’s signature musical celebration of the horse on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

• Breed Pavilion, Horse & Farm Exhibits, Horses for Sale and Demonstrations — Enjoy meeting horses of all breeds, colors, and disciplines!

• Equine Fundamentals Forum — Educational presentations, exhibits, and activities for new riders and horse owners.

• The Versatile Horse & Rider Competition — An exciting race through an obstacle course with $5,500 at stake!

• Adoption Affaire — Fall in love with your next horse at the Adoption Affaire.

• Drive A Draft — Experience the thrill of a lifetime and learn to drive a draft horse!

• A Horse for Heroes — Enjoy equine assisted activities and therapies for veterans, active-duty, and first responders, through Operation Horses and Heroes.

• The Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge (NEW) — A fun new activity for equestrians to exercise their barnyard skills and win prizes, no horses needed!

• Youth Activities and much, much more!

Featured Clinicians (General Training & Horsemanship)

Mike Major

Julie Goodnight

Brandi Lyons

Jason Irwin

Chelsea Canedy

Phillip Dutton (Eventing) presented by Triple Crown Nutrition

Steffen Peters (Dressage)

Andrew Welles (Hunter/Jumper)

Greg Robinson (Ranch Horse, Reined Cow Horse)

Mark Bolender (Mountain Trail)

Jeanne McDonald (Dressage)

Stacey Giere (Driving)

Bronwyn Irwin (Pole Bending)

Lynn Newton (Western Dressage)

Carl Bledsoe (Easy Gaited Horses)

Matt McHugh (Trailer Driving)

Sam & Kellie Rettinger (Draft Horses)

Jim Masterson (Equine Bodywork)

Marty Whittle (Equi Yoga)

Copper Hill Vaulting Team (Vaulting)

Additional presenters to be announced soon!

For all you need to know, visit equineaffaire.com

Proud sponsors of this Equine Affaire:

everywhere you go Carry your passion

Oughton’s Fall 2023 Capsule captures the essence of equestrian heritage with timeless, heirloom-quality bags

Well-known and favored by the elevated equestrian, Oughton (pronounced “out-in”) combines subtle, in-the know equestrian detailing, patented halter hardware, and luxury materials that only become more beautiful with time. The brand started with a single, bespoke rolling tack trunk, handcrafted in Argentina from waxed canvas, leather, and halter fittings. Fifteen years later, it has expanded into a line of luxury leather handbags that reflects the rich textures and deep-rooted values of a life lived with horses.

in-the-know EQUESTRIAN DETAILS

Only equestrians will spot the subtle design details: the graceful, curved saddle flap on the Paddock Convertible Backpack Purse (left), the eye-catching field-gate buckle the Cheval Carry All Tote (above), and the patented halter hardware on the Cob Purse

equestrian luxury WITHIN REACH

The Paddock Convertible Belt Bag (above) is an innovative, hands-free belt bag designed for the active equestrian. Die-cut belt slots secure and steady as you ride, and when it’s time to carry your passion beyond the barn, a generous 47” strap attaches to hidden snaps, instantly turning this trusty trail packer into a downtown pas de deux.

(right). Find these styles at Oughton.com or at select local tack stores.

Earn an Equine Studies Certificate with a strong liberal arts and sciences foundation.

Extensive on-campus facilities include a 130-acre riding center, a 120’ x 300’ indoor arena, boarding opportunities and newly renovated stables

• Hunter/Jumper riding program

•

NCEA, IHSA and ODAC competitive teams and lessons for all levels

• 100+ years of equine excellence

Excellent riders make exemplary leaders. Learn more at sbc.edu/riding.

RIDE EQUISTYLE

How Catherine Winter became the authority on equestrian safety— and affordable high-end style

WHILE STYLE MAY NOT have a direct relation to how we place in the show ring, looking good makes you feel good, and when you feel good, you perform better.

It’s no secret though that equestrian style can be expensive, especially when you factor in the other expenses associated with the sport. Catherine Winter, owner of Ride EquiSafe and Ride EquiStyle, is here to make equestrian fashion more available to all riders.

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU

PHOTOS: COURTESY CATHERINE WINTER

Visitors to the downtown Landrum, SC store can peruse home accents and second life equestrian goods

Winter is a lifelong rider and grew up riding primarily in the hunter/jumper discipline but also dabbled in eventing.

A FOUNDATION IN SAFETY

In 2020, Winter was riding at a farm that catered to both disciplines, and she would take her horse into a hunter derby one day, and in the jumper ring the next. When she decided to take her horse eventing, she knew she needed a safety vest.

“I was disturbed by how difficult it was to find safety information for vests,” says Winter. “There was no guide on quality or fit.”

So she made a big decision: leave her job in the corporate world to start her own company, Ride EquiSafe, and become that resource for people to come to with questions on safety.

“I wanted to make sure that I had all the safety products and information that people needed,” says Winter. While the team with Ride EquiSafe would travel to both horse shows and farms for group fittings, Winter also set up a brick and mortar store at the Tryon International Equestrian Center.

With many loyal customers appreciating Winter’s passion for equestrian safety products, they started asking her to consider branching the business out into a consignment store.

Winter prefers to call the offerings “second life,” as that is what the products are getting. “People really liked the idea of being able to bring previously loved riding clothes to the horse show and drop them

off to give them a second life with another rider,” says Winter.

From that idea, she started Ride EquiStyle. When the company grew quickly, Winter made the decision to open up a storefront twenty minutes away from the horse show in Landrum, SC.

FAVORITE BRANDS, FOR ALL AGES AND SIZES

Ride EquiStyle features all of your favorite equestrian brands. With a rotating list of “Hot Brands,” they offer high-end items at a fraction of the cost.

While they won’t sell any used air vests, they will sell “new with tags” items that have never deployed, as well as gently used body protectors, meaning you can buy safety equipment for a fraction of the cost of new.

Winter also makes it a point to have a variety of items for all ages and all sizes. “The more inclusive we can be, the better.”

HOW IT WORKS

If you have items that you would like to consign with Ride EquiStyle, you can bring them to their store in Landrum, SC, to the Ride EquiSafe storefront at Tryon International, to any Ride EquiSafe horse show booth, or you can ship your items directly to them.

Ride EquiStyle offers the option to do a payout or a store credit with the told amount sold. For high demand items, they will do special offers, offering even more favorable consignment terms.

Winter’s mother, Helene, is an

interior designer, so there’s also a section of the Landrum storefront that has a large equestrian home decor selection so your home can reflect your lifestyle. Helene also offers design services to help clients realize their design vision.

SERVICE FIRST

Winter and her team are not only passionate about the style options that they are able to offer customers, they are also driven to provide the best customer service possible.

From the highly skilled fitters at Ride EquiSafe to the staff at Ride EquiStyle, creating a positive customer experience is top priority.

“We built our reputation not just on product, but first and foremost on service,” says Winter. “Just because you’re getting the clothing at a second life price, we still want to ensure that you are engaged in an elevated and highly personalized customer experience.”

WHAT’S NEXT

While Winter continues to grow both of her businesses, she’s hoping to venture into a further expansion of second life offerings …bits!

“So many people will buy a bit, use it once, and then realize it’s not for their horse but be unable to return it,” says Winter. “I think this is a hole in the market we could help fill.”

In the year that it has been in business, Ride EquiStyle has provided equestrians with a more affordable way to look good and feel good. Ultimately, Winter aims to continue those sentiments for all of her customers.

“We are exceptionally grateful to have such a strong and loyal clientele,” says Winter. “They asked us for this, and we hope that this is a way to say thank you.”

For more information about Ride EquiStyle, please visit www.rideequistyle.com.

“Just because you’re getting the clothing at a second life price, we still want to ensure that you are engaged in an elevated and highly personalized customer experience.”

—CATHERINE WINTER, OWNER OF RIDE EQUISAFE AND RIDE EQUISTYLE

EQUESTRIAN CENTER

JOIN US AT THE BARN!

• Founded in 1869, Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) is a boarding and day school for girls in Grades 7-12 and Postgraduate (PG).

• Located in historic Greenfield, Massachusetts, SBS has been a member of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) since its official inception in 2002.

• The School boasts five National Titles featuring Middle School and Upper School IEA teams that compete within the largest zone in the country.

SCHEDULE AN IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL VISIT AT SBSCHOOL.ORG/ VISIT

• Director of Riding Mina Payne ‘78 is one of the top 50 riding instructors in America by the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA).

• Offering 7-day boarding, 5-day boarding, and day enrollment options, we invite you to explore SBS!

HALIFAX SPORT HORSES Bringing the importing dream within reach

BEGINNING THE SEARCH for a new horse is exciting for every rider, no matter the circumstances. Many riders choose to stay Stateside, as it’s easier to try horses at home than going international. And while buying o a video is always an option, most prefer to have hands-on experience with the horses.

The allure of importing is strong for many riders, but the idea of purchasing a horse from Europe can be intimidating to say the least. Halifax Sport Horses is working to direct buyers toward importing their dream horse while taking care of everything along the way.

“We take the initiative and travel. We work in eight di erent countries and have trusted associates. Our hubs are in the United Kingdom, Poland, Belgium, and The Netherlands,” Danielle Runions, co-founder of Halifax Sport Horses, tells The Plaid Horse.

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU

JERIMIAH HSH Sales Prospect

CASSIE REDDEN & CURLIN at Hill ‘N’ Dale Farm in Kentucky

EL MACHO HSH Sales Prospect

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HALIFAX SPORT HORSES

“I try my hardest to make sure each person that comes to us has the ability to import.”

—DANIELLE RUNIONS, CO-FOUNDER

HAILASAS Sold to Florida

Sold

WHO THEY ARE

Halifax Sport Horses is a boutiquestyle equine sales and marketing agency focused on making the European market more accessible to buyers in the United States. Founded by Runions and her partner, Cassie Redden, the two have combined their decades of experience to provide a hands-on experience to buyers interested in importing, even if they can’t go see the horse in Europe themselves.

As a trainer for over 25 years, Runions has been horse showing and networking with other equine professionals for her entire career.

“I grew up on the circuit so I know what I’m looking for as far as horses go,” says Runions.

Both Redden and Runions agree that the most important quality in a horse is a good brain to make them a safe mount, while also possessing

TESTIMONIAL

Buying horses is always a risk, even more so when you can’t get your own eyes, hands or legs around what you’re buying. Halifax Sport Horses has helped bridge that gap for us.”

the ability to be competitive.

While Runions focuses on the temperament of each horse, Redden has years of experience focusing on breeding, so she sets her sights on impressive pedigrees and top sport horse lines.

“Cassie goes through extensive research on each horse’s pedigree,” says Runions. “She will be up for three nights reading back to the 1700’s, researching which blood goes with which. She goes really deep into everything to ensure that you get the best breeding.”

STAYING IN BUDGET

Another important factor for Halifax? Making sure buyers are paying appropriate prices and staying in budget.

“We look for good prices,” says Runions. “It’s kind of our biggest thing with Halifax is we try to get the best

prices. at way even if a broker over in the United States or a professional wants to resell one, they can.”

Both Redden and Runions are committed to working with each person’s budget, truly believing that there is a match out there for every buyer.

“I try my hardest to make sure each person that comes to us has the ability to import,” says Runions. “If somebody really wants a horse and they only have $25,000 dollars to spend and they’ve been looking Stateside with no luck, we’ll just help them however we can without adding to their bottom line. It’s all about customer service and creating those relationships with people.”

THERE FOR EVERY STEP

While the duo has certainly made the buying process easier by nding horses and trying them for clients,

“We want to make the importing process more accessible to all and not so exclusive.”—CASSIE REDDEN, CO-FOUNDER

NEAR AND FAR RIGHT: Million Millow with Halifax Sport Horses Partnership Rider Julia Jablonska

MILLION MILLOW Competing • Poland, EU

—GRETCHEN

ANDERSON, Apple Knoll Farm, New Hampshire

their services don’t stop there.

Once a buyer nds a horse that they like, the team continues to hold each client’s hand for the next week or two until the horse has landed in the United States.

From organizing the vetting process, the ights, and arrival to the country, Halifax has their buyers covered.

“Once a horse is chosen, we take them to one of our hubs. If they need to gain weight or something like that we make sure they get the proper nutrients, or whatever they need,” says Runions. “If our clients want the horse to be body clipped or

have a professional photo shoot, we o er that, too.”

Halifax partners with EquiJet for equine transportation from Europe to the United States. Runions has a full check list for EquiJet to complete before horses board their ights, such as receiving Ulcergard and an immune system booster called Equistem.

While the pair strives to make perfect matches between horse and rider, they understand that circumstances change and matches may sometimes not work out.

“If a buyer is unhappy with their purchase, we’re always willing to buy

it back from them, so they kind of have a risk-free connection with us,” says Runions. “We’ve sold a lot of horses in a short amount of time, and luckily have not had any refunds yet.”

WHAT’S NEXT

Looking ahead, Runions and Redden hope to grow Halifax into a top company for buyers to import horses.

“We want to make the importing process more accessible to all and not so exclusive,” says Redden.

To learn more about the services offered by Halifax Sport Horses, visit their website at halifaxsporthorses.com.

OZONE VDL Sold • Florida

COSMO HSH Sales Prospect

Not H l K f

Not h ing m oves a Hor s e lik e Kr af t

Not h ing m oves a Hor s e lik e Kr af t

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Round Stables

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Round Pens

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Ground Mounted Walkers

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Ceiling Mounted Walkers

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Water-, Oval Walkers

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Riding Arenas

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RELEASE THE NICE HORSE INSIDE.

If you’re struggling with an irritable horse, hormone imbalance and oversensitivity to his environment may be contributing to his behavior.

Perfect Harmony EQ™ uniquely addresses your horse’s attitude by stabilizing normal, healthy hormone balance, and modulating the neuropathways to encourage focus and relaxation.

Fed daily, Perfect Harmony EQ™ can help encourage a pleasant, cooperative temperament, reducing your lunging time and helping your horse focus on his job.

OBSERVABLE BEHAVIOR IMPROVEMENT WITHIN 2 DAYS

EFFECTIVE FOR GELDINGS, MARES OR STALLIONS

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SAFE & PLEASANT TO HANDLE

IDEAL FOR USE WHERE PROGESTERONE IS UNDESIRABLE OR PROHIBITED

Available at PerfectProductsEQ.com, Amazon and at your favorite tack store.

AP HASSINGER

“We Want Everyone to Have Their Favorite Breeches”

AS EQUESTRIANS, we spend a lot of time in our riding clothes. Our tight fitting, sweat trapping, often uncomfortable riding clothes.

Amy Hassinger, a life-long equestrian and prolific inventor, is no stranger to the struggles of wearing this necessary but sometimes constricting clothing.

For a number of years, she rode in breeches that weren’t comfortable for her. She felt that they just didn’t have the fit that suited her body best.

“I thought to myself, if I have this problem, I’m probably not the only one,” Amy Hassinger tells The Plaid Horse. “I sat down and I made a list of everything I didn’t like about my current breeches.”

And from that list, AP Hassinger was born.

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU PHOTOS: MIRANDA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

ABOUT THE BRAND

AP Hassinger breeches are designed to be comfortable for every rider, starting with their material.

“Common issues that I had with my breeches were that they were scratchy and not stretchy,” says Hassinger. “We looked at different fabrics for our breeches and chose one that is as soft as silk but has a four-way stretch and wicks.”

Another issue that Hassinger found with breeches was finding a fit that worked for her body. AP Hassinger breeches have a waist that is between the normal high-rise and low-rise, making them comfortable for riders of all ages to wear.

An additional feature to the AP Hassinger breeches are the old school knee patch. The company took their breeches to the next level by adding a small silicon patch that

adds just enough grip to the knee roll without damaging the saddle.

The breeches also have a special pattern at the bottom to assist them in staying on better, making constantly pulling up your pants a thing of the past.

With designs for the hunter, dressage, and schooling ring, breeches are available with both front and side zip, so there is something for everyone’s preference.

“People are die hard in what they love for their zippers,” says Hassinger. “We want everyone to have their favorite breeches.”

IN THE PIPELINE

Hassinger launched her line of breeches at the American Equestrian Trade Association event at the end of August, making them available through her website on September 1, 2023. While breeches are the focus now, she is excited about the long list of items she and her team will be developing in the future.

Later this year, she will be launching a line of show and schooling shirts, making them available for the winter circuit, and next year she plans to add riding coats.

While AP Hassinger currently only has designs for women and girls, they will be adding riding clothing for men and boys in the spring of 2024.

MEETING NEEDS

While AP Hassinger is Hassinger’s newest venture, she isn’t new to

the world of entrepreneurship and invention.

In the hunter ring, she is recognized as the owner of the well-known stallion Cadouch Z, currently ridden by Tori Colvin. But outside of the ring, she’s a multi-business owner, all with a common theme.

“If there is something that I need or if I have a problem and can’t find a product that fills that void, I’ll just make it,” says Hassinger.

For example, Equine Healthcare International was born from her needing certain products, like the widely used Pomms earplugs.

When she wanted a new way to deliver regenerative therapy to her horses, Hassinger BioMedical Solutions was created.

“If I get an idea, which is usually every five minutes, we try to bring it to market,” jokes Hassinger. “While I get a lot of ideas on my own, people also often chime in with ideas as well. If there is a need for something, we try to meet that need.”

While inventing and bringing a product to market is no easy task, the Hassinger family is committed to providing the equine community with top quality products and ideas that meet everyone’s needs.

“The motto of Hassinger family brands is ‘You Spoke, We Listened.’”

To learn more about AP Hassinger breeches, visit www.aphassinger.us. For additional information on the Hassinger family brands, please visit www.hassingerfarm.com.

“The motto of Hassinger family brands is ‘You Spoke, We Listened.’”

—AMY HASSINGER, FOUNDER/OWNER

The AP Hassinger Girls Schooling Breeches features pink piping

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Hunter Breeches with silicon patch; AP Hassinger Hunter Breeches with side zipper; AP Hassinger Dressage Breeches with side zipper; AP Hassinger Schooling Breeches

Three decades of inspiring confidence through design

Three decades of inspiring confidence through design

SEEDS OF INNOVATION

SEEDS OF INNOVATION

Kerrits grew from the humble seeds of one woman’s quest for women’s athletic apparel that truly fit and flattered. In 1986, windsurfer Kerri Kent was so frustrated by ill-fitting bathing suits that she bought $50 worth of fabric and began making swimsuits herself. Kerrits Activewear was born.

Kerrits grew from the humble seeds of one woman’s quest for women’s athletic apparel that truly fit and flattered. In 1986, windsurfer Kerri Kent was so frustrated by ill-fitting bathing suits that she bought $50 worth of fabric and began making swimsuits herself. Kerrits Activewear was born.

The suits garnered national attention and caught the eye of an equestrian company CEO who asked Kent to design a line for women who shared her other passion, horses. In 1991, Kerrits laid the groundwork for the performance apparel that riders take for granted today. Their original riding tights were the perfect combination of technical, functional, and comfortable.

The suits garnered national attention and caught the eye of an equestrian company CEO who asked Kent to design a line for women who shared her other passion, horses. In 1991, Kerrits laid the groundwork for the performance apparel that riders take for granted today. Their original riding tights were the perfect combination of technical, functional, and comfortable.

KERRITS HISTORY

KERRITS HISTORY

The riders at Kerrits know that confidence is a powerful thing. That’s why their high performance, durable clothes are also beautiful—and flattering. They incorporate decades of design and fit experience with rich colors and fun prints to create apparel that inspires confidence in and out of the saddle and makes the time you spend with horses even more special.

The riders at Kerrits know that confidence is a powerful thing. That’s why their high performance, durable clothes are also beautiful—and flattering. They incorporate decades of design and fit experience with rich colors and fun prints to create apparel that inspires confidence in and out of the saddle and makes the time you spend with horses even more special.

1986

1986

1991

1991

2005

2005

2008

2008

Founder Kerri Kent designs her first performance swimwear.

Game changer: Kerrits introduces machine washable show coats.

The original Kerrits Performance Riding Tight is born.

Kerrits innovative GripTek™ fabric delivers the secure grip riders crave.

Founder Kerri Kent designs her first performance swimwear.

Game changer: Kerrits introduces machine washable show coats.

The original Kerrits Performance Riding Tight is born.

Kerrits innovative GripTek™ fabric delivers the secure grip riders crave.

2014

2014

2020

2020

2022

2022

IN 1991, KERRITS LAID THE GROUNDWORK FOR PERFORMANCE APPAREL THAT RIDERS TAKE FOR GRANTED TODAY. THEIR ORIGINAL TIGHTS WERE TECHNICAL, FUNCTIONAL, AND COMFORTABLE.

IN 1991, KERRITS LAID THE GROUNDWORK FOR PERFORMANCE APPAREL THAT RIDERS TAKE FOR GRANTED TODAY. THEIR ORIGINAL TIGHTS WERE TECHNICAL, FUNCTIONAL, AND COMFORTABLE.

ROOTED IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

ROOTED IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Be ready for any weather with styles tested right in Kerrits’ own backyard. Their homebase in Washington is a perfect test lab to ride through rain, wind, snow, and sun — sometimes all in the same day.

Be ready for any weather with styles tested right in Kerrits’ own backyard. Their homebase in Washington is a perfect test lab to ride through rain, wind, snow, and sun — sometimes all in the same day.

Stay dry in the new Rein Check Waterproof Shell and 3-Season Tailored Breech (top), or layer up in the Bit by Bit Quilted Jacket and Fleece Lite II Riding Tights (far left). Keep young riders warm and happy in the Kids Muzzle Nuzzle Fleece and Kids Pony Tracks Quilted Reversible Jacket (left).

Stay dry in the new Rein Check Waterproof Shell and 3-Season Tailored Breech (top), or layer up in the Bit by Bit Quilted Jacket and Fleece Lite II Riding Tights (far left).

Keep young riders warm and happy in the Kids Muzzle Nuzzle Fleece and Kids Pony Tracks Quilted Reversible Jacket (left).

2023

2023

Ice Fil® Tech Tights launch a cooling revolution for riders in hot climates.

Kerrits Stretch Denim Breeches win the DriRelease® innovation award.

The Affinity® collection’s technical fabrics cool riders in the show ring.

Kerrits makes strides with the Groundwork Waterproof Sneaker.

Ice Fil® Tech Tights launch a cooling revolution for riders in hot climates.

Kerrits Stretch Denim Breeches win the DriRelease® innovation award.

The Affinity® collection’s technical fabrics cool riders in the show ring.

Kerrits makes strides with the Groundwork Waterproof Sneaker.

US Equestrian Leading Pony Owner 2022

TIPS FOR RIDING SUCCESS: BE A WORKER

Workers show up. They are ready to learn from the moment they get to the barn. We all get distracted, but a worker is the one who puts in the extra time. They pick up, and help around the farm with whatever is needed. When they ride, they ride with a plan. They do transitions, and figures and have a goal. They ride without stirrups, without reins. They put in days of long, boring fitness rides because it is the right thing for the horses. They do the hard things, because it makes them stronger and better.

PHOTOS © ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY, SHAWN M c MILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY, SARA SHIER PHOTOGRAPHY, COPPER ARROW PHOTOGRAPHY

young riders

horses, the better

DR . KELLY VINEYARD , PH. D.

Meet an equine nutrition expert at Purina Animal Nutrition dedicated to improving life for senior horses— and beyond

WORDS: APRIL BILODEAU PHOTOS: KEITH LADZINSKI

CLOSE YOUR eyes and picture an older horse. Maybe they have a long mane. They’re not thin, but you can see their spine a little more due to a swayed back. They’re a little slower than they were when they were younger.

What if that image of the older horse became a thing of the past? And in its place was a horse with a solid weight, more energy, healthy feet, and all of the qualities at 20 years old that they had at 10 years old?

With the expertise of the six Ph.D. nutritionists on their Equine Technical and R&D team, including Dr. Kelly Vineyard, Ph.D., Purina Animal Nutrition is passionate about nding innovative ways to meet the unique nutritional needs of senior horses through research-based horse feed products.

Purina’s three premium senior horse feeds formulated with ActivAge® prebiotic technology

Dr. Kelly Vineyard, Ph.D. and her horse, Dibadu

AN EXCITING DISCOVERY

Purina has always been at the forefront of senior horse nutrition. Introduced over 30 years ago, Purina Equine Senior® horse feed was the first widely available horse feed specifically designed for seniors. Over the years, the formulation has been continually updated and enhanced, which is why it remains the

number one veterinarian-recommended senior horse feed.

As part of these continued innovation efforts, Purina conducted a series of research projects in collaboration with Dr. Amanda Adams at the Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky (www.seniorhorsehealth.com).

“We were specifically focused on supporting the aging immune system

through nutrition” says Dr. Vineyard. “This is why we decided to partner with Dr. Adams, because she is one of the leading experts on immune function in the aging horse.”

Through this work, it was discovered that incorporating the ActivAge® prebiotic into Equine Senior® helped protect against inflammation associated with aging and supported a healthy immune response.

“I wake up and say, ‘What can I do to make a horse’s life better?”

—DR. KELLY VINEYARD, PH.D., SENIOR EQUINE NUTRITIONIST AT PURINA

“I am pretty sure that I would do what I would do even if I didn’t get paid,” Dr. Vineyard, Senior Equine Nutritionist with Purina, tells e Plaid Horse. “I have my dream job, and getting to think about and talk about horses every day is a privilege.”

Further studies conducted at the Purina Animal Nutrition Center in Gray Summit, MO, confirmed these results and demonstrated that ActivAge® also supports optimal mobility and metabolic response in aged horses. These findings are the reason why ActivAge® is currently incorporated into all three of Purina’s premium senior horse feeds, Equine Senior®, Equine Senior® Active, and Enrich Plus® Senior.

ActivAge® is derived via the fermentation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. The unique prebiotic technology is composed of not only the yeast, but also beneficial metabolites generated during the fermentation process.

The research results with ActivAge® were so impactful that Dr. Vineyard worked with the Purina team and secured a patent on the Equine Senior® formula including the ActivAge® prebiotic technology, which means no other feed company can replicate it.

ONCE A HORSE GIRL, ALWAYS A HORSE GIRL

Dr. Vineyard has always had the horse bug. She grew up cleaning stalls in exchange for lessons. When she wasn’t at the barn, she was begging her parents for more saddle time and reading horse books at every opportunity.

Her continued passion for horses

combined with her love for science inspired her to study equine nutrition in graduate school at the University of Florida, where she earned both her Master’s and Ph.D. in Animal Sciences.

“I wake up and say to myself, ‘What can I do to make a horse’s life better?’ Every single day I’m grateful for this opportunity to combine my love of science and horses,” says Vineyard.

Vineyard is a married mom of two boys and has also continued her riding career; she owns a 9-year-old Hanoverian gelding named Dibadu.

As a dressage rider, she takes regular lessons and continues to show, even recently qualifying for the 2023 Great

RIGHT: Romi is a 21-year-old Grand Prix schoolmaster who eats Enrich Plus® Senior. He is ridden by Susannah Hamlin (Dr. Vineyard’s dressage instructor) and owned by Anne Shermyen

American Insurance Group/United States Dressage Federation Region 3 Dressage Championships.

While Dibadu is only nine, his daily ration consists of Purina Equine Senior® Active paired with good quality grass hay, and supplemented with SuperSport® Amino Acid supplement, Omega Match® Ahiflower® oil, and electrolytes (see below—senior feed is not just for senior horses!).

Vineyard says that the Equine Senior® Active formulation with ActivAge® has been key to her own horse’s healthy weight, shiny coat, and overall health.

“Even though Dibadu is not technically considered a ‘senior horse,’ he can absolutely benefit from Equine Senior® Active with ActivAge®. It is a fantastic performance horse feed for hard-working horses that need extra calories,” says Vineyard.

Canadian eventer Kyle Carter is also a believer in the benefits of ActivAge®. His horse Madison Park (aka Parker), a former 5* Olympic partner, is still in work and in “active retirement” at 25 years old. Parker is fed Equine Senior® Active, and Carter routinely recommends Equine Senior® Active to his clients based on the positive effects he sees in his own horses.

TYPES OF FEEDS

With so many feed options on the market, it’s important to understand the three main types.

A complete feed is defined as a product with forage built in, and it can be fed as the sole ration if needed. Traditional senior feeds are formulated for horses with poor teeth or other digestive complications that prevent them from properly chewing or digesting long-stem hay. Senior horses need to be transitioned to a complete feed like Equine Senior® when they start quidding and can no longer effectively chew hay.

A concentrate feed supplies essential nutrients and extra calories and is designed to be fed along with longstem forage. Equine Senior® Active is a concentrate feed, and it’s a great choice for aging horses that need extra calories and can still eat hay.

A ration balancer is a concentrated,

low-volume feed designed to fill in the nutritional gaps of a forage-only diet. Ration balancers are great for easy keepers, as they provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, without additional calories. Enrich Plus® Senior is a ration balancer designed specifically to address the needs of the aging easy keeper.

A common misconception is that “senior feed” should only be fed to aging horses when in fact, mature horses of all ages can thrive on senior feed, if it meets their specific dietary needs.

“However, senior feed should not be fed to young growing horses due to their increased nutrient requirements in relation to calorie needs,” says Vineyard.

COVERING ALL BASES

Purina Equine Senior®, Purina Equine Senior® Active, and Enrich Plus® Senior all not only contain ActivAge® but

also Purina’s leading gastric support supplement, Outlast®.

These feeds offer many benefits for most horses, and the support they provide to horses in their senior years is unmatched.

With cutting-edge horse feeds containing the ActivAge® technology, Purina continues to work toward making sure every senior horse has the opportunity to continue comfortably working and looking younger than ever.

“Just because a horse is getting older doesn’t mean they have to look it,” says Vineyard. Moreover, with the help of the innovations at her company, Vineyard’s ultimate goal is helping fellow horse lovers gain more good years with their senior partners.

To learn more about Equine Senior®, Equine Senior® Active, and Enrich Plus® Senior with ActivAge®, or other Purina products, visit www.purinamills.com/horse-feed.

“Just because a horse is getting older doesn’t mean they have to look it.”

—DR. KELLY VINEYARD, PH.D., SENIOR EQUINE NUTRITIONIST AT PURINA

photo alden corrigan media

THE GREEN PONY PROBLEM

WHEN I’M AT A HORSE SHOW, I always marvel at the number of classes available to professionals at the beginning of the week to assist in prepping horses for their junior or amateur riders. Pick a height, and there’s a whole prep division for it. That is, until you get to the pony divisions.

According to Rule HU101 in the USEF rule book, “Ponies shown by a junior in any rated pony hunter sections (i.e. Children’s Hunter Pony, Green Pony Hunter, Regular Pony Hunter), WIHS Pony Equitation, or USEF Pony Medal cannot be shown by an adult at the same competition.”

Arguably, green ponies need the prep rides far more than any other category. Ponies are smart, and you can bet that even if a pro warms them up, they know when the child is on. If we follow that storyline, now you have a green pony who may have green moments in the ring, so then a professional must ride it in the classes the following week, therefore making it so the child can’t show that whole week.

One solution that has become more common is having more experienced junior riders school and show these ponies. But that means you have kids who show in the Maclay also showing in the Small Greens.

Is that fair to younger, less experienced riders? Probably not. But is it right for the situation we’ve created? Absolutely. If a professional can’t show a pony,

With a nationwide pony shortage, Allyson Coluccio speaks out about how a USEF rule may be detrimental to developing green ponies

“We need to consider more options for the ponies.”

ABOVE: Allyson Coluccio and her farm animals

RIGHT: Allyson Coluccio and EMC Entourage, USEF HOTY Medium Pony Finals winner and his son, EMC Enjoy, 2022 USEF Grand Green Pony Hunter

we have to choose the most qualified juniors to do so. Because we can’t have ponies being properly produced at the same time by professionals and children, we have a pony shortage. We need seasoned ponies to help bring along the next generation of riders. Therefore, this rule has the potential to impact the overall numbers in our sport.

We need to consider more options for the ponies. Perhaps the solution is larger show parks need to develop more unrated weeks so that riders have the option to show at big-time venues and properly produce their ponies in the show ring with the assistance of a professional.

In addition, producing these ponies without the added cost and pressure of a rated show encourages more people to partake in development, further assisting in our current shortage.

I think it’s important to recognize that not everyone has the desire to compete in recognized shows, nor can everyone afford to do so. At an unrecognized show, exhibitors are looking at a couple hundred dollars for the day for show fees, if that. A recognized one-day show could run them almost one thousand dollars. There’s just no comparison.

By creating and offering more opportunities for green ponies, we are bridging a major gap and making the sport more accessible to talent, both in riders and ponies, that may otherwise go undetected.

ABOUT THE WRITER ALLYSON COLUCCIO

Allyson Coluccio is the Owner of Hidden Ridge International, based in Middleburg, VA and Wellington, FL. With nearly 40 years in the business, she has trained and produced multiple national champions in a variety of divisions. Currently, her business focuses on sales and breeding. Horses in her program have become USHJA Derby Finals winners, International FEI show jumpers, and even some top eventing prospects.

PHOTOS: COURTESY ALLYSON COLLUCIO

Evan Coluccio and Miss Muffet, 1995 USEF Pony Finals Champion

Allyson Coluccio with EMC Entourage

Where Each Girl Can Pursue Her Passion for Riding

Imagine taking a riding lesson in between science and English class. Whether a beginner or competing on a national level, Foxcroft School supports every girl’s passion for riding. Riders of all skill levels can find joy in our top-tier equestrian program and 500-acre campus. Girls new to riding will have an exciting world of horsemanship to explore under the guidance of our expert instructors. Experienced riders can qualify for our Exceptional Proficiency (EP) program and train for greatness while receiving an outstanding education.

540.687.4340 | admission@foxcroft.org

“I would’ve never imagined that I’d grow my riding abilities to the extent that I have at Foxcroft and with the help of my amazing trainers.”

©Erin Gilmore Photography

— Valeska F. ’26

©Erin Gilmore Photography

HORSEWATCHING

Why Does a Horse Whinny and Everything Else You Ever Wanted to Know

BY DESMOND MORRIS

Reprinted with permission from the publisher

HOW DO HORSES SHOW AFFECTION FOR ONE ANOTHER?

Like many mammals, horses display their friendship for one another by acts of mutual cleaning. Being groomed by its mother is one of the earliest and most basic rewards for the young foal, second only to being suckled. Having its coat gently nibbled comes to represent moments of peace, security, and maternal love. When the foal matures it retains this association between grooming and affection.

When it is born the foal is carefully licked by the mare for about the first half an hour of its life. Licking then almost vanishes as a mode of grooming and is replaced by delicate biting movements that help to keep the coat in good condition, freeing matted patches, removing loose hair, clearing away dead skin, and opening clogged pores to enhance sweating. When it is a few days old the foal may indulge in reciprocal nibbling with the mare, but at first these bouts are few and far between.

The earliest recorded mutual session of this kind was between a three-day-old foal and its mother, but this was exceptional. By the end of the first week of life it starts to occur more often and the frequency increases steadily in the month ahead. The young animal may also be seen in mutual grooming with another foal, the sessions lasting up to several minutes. The peak of this activity is reached between the ages of three and four months.

Having established this mutual aid system in infancy, horses continue to use it throughout their adult lives. In a

wild-living adult band, grooming sessions can be used by human observers as indicators of the relationships within the group. The more friendly two horses are, the more they groom one another. Rival horses rarely indulge in this pattern of behavior. It is most likely to be the weaker of the two animals that initiates the bout of grooming, careful studies revealing that it is the subordinate that approaches the dominant one in 62 percent of cases.

However, it is the dominant partner that nearly always brings the session to a close. Each bout starts with the two animals sniffing one another and then, facing in opposite directions, moving closer so that each can nibble the other’s mane. This is the most popular area of the body for grooming, accounting for 60 percent of all the nibbles. There are two reasons for this: The mane is the most difficult part of the body for a horse to keep clean itself, and in addition the long hairs there need more attention than the shorter body hairs. From the manes, the nibbling spreads to take in the sides of the neck, the shoulders, and the back, as far as the base of the tail—all areas that are hard to deal with without a little help from a friend. A solitary horse can roll on its back on the ground, or rub up against a branch or a tree trunk, but these are crude, imprecise actions. Only the finely tuned nibbling of the mutual grooming session can deal with specific points of irritation efficiently.

Sometimes, when they have worked their way down one side of the body, the two companions turn around and repeat the process along the opposite side, starting out at the head end again. These double-sided sessions may extend up to thirty minutes, but they are rare. Ninety percent of all grooming bouts last no longer than three minutes. The frequency with which they occur varies from season to season, but they are most common in the spring and summer. The spring peak coincides with the shedding

In the horse’s mind, the lengthy grooming sessions it receives are an indication that its human companion is its close friend.

of the winter coat, and the second peak, at the height of summer, is explained by the need for shade. Driven together in quietly resting, shade-hugging groups, wildliving horses are literally thrust under one another’s noses, and this encourages extra grooming.

In addition to mutual nibbling, horses that are troubled by insects indulge in mutual tail-swishing. Standing close together on a hot, fly-buzzing day, they repeatedly flick their tails over the faces of their companions. Sometimes whole groups of horses swish away together, clearing the surrounding air of troublesome pests. Detailed studies of wild-living horses have

revealed that those living in groups where this action is possible suffer from far fewer horsefly bites than those living separately. Mutual aid actions are so characteristic of friendly relations that they continue even in cases where the coats are in perfect condition and need no real cleaning. The grooming has become an end in itself, a gesture of “belonging” and a symbol of the bond between the equine companions. Because of this, the grooming of horses by their human owners has a vital significance. It is much more than a simple matter of making the horse look neat and tidy. In the horse’s mind, the lengthy grooming sessions it

THE AUTHOR DESMOND MORRIS

An accomplished artist, TV presenter, film maker and writer, Desmond Morris was born in 1928. Educated at Birmingham and Oxford universities, he became the Curator of Mammals at London Zoo in 1959, a post he held for eight years. In 1967 he published The Naked Ape which has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and has changed the way we view our own species forever. Morris’ books have been published in over thirty-six countries.

receives are an indication that its human companion is its close friend. For this reason it is always better for the horse’s rider also to be its “groomer.” This will ensure a tight emotional bond between the two and will mean that the horse always wants to please the rider when they are traveling together. Where the rider and the groom are two different people, the bond of attachment will be weaker between rider and horse.

Apart from the elaborate grooming sessions of expert horsemen and horsewomen, there is another way in which the natural behavior of equines can be utilized to human advantage. Whenever a human meets a strange horse for the first time, the animal’s suspicions and fears can be reduced by performing actions that approximate the start of a horse-to-horse cleaning session. Sniffing the horse’s nostrils during the initial approach is the best way of greeting the animal, followed by a “finger-nibbling” of its mane, in which the thumb and bent fingers act as though they were the opposing incisors of a companion horse’s nibbling mouth. Working up and down the mane with this finger-nibbling will indicate to a horse that you wish to be friendly and will mean more to it than the pats and slaps that are so often administered. The only drawback to this approach is that it sometimes works so well that the human finds himself or herself receiving nibbles from the horse in reply. Twisting its head around as far as it can, it may return your compliment with such vigorous grooming actions that your clothes never look quite the same again.

Horsewatching is available at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

Preparing Young Horses for the Show Ring

Trainer, rider, and judge Chris Wynne shares his keys to success

PREPARING YOUNG HORSES for the show ring is an effort that involves nearly countless variables. For Chris Wynne, a Virginia Beach-based hunter rider, trainer, and judge, giving young horses a confident start has become something of a speciality.

When Wynne was a junior rider, and during the first part of his professional career, he mainly worked on converting off the track Thoroughbreds into show hunters. Thoroughbreds were the dominant and most accessible breed at the time. As the years progressed, he found his niche in importing Warmbloods from Europe and bringing them along to be some of the top show hunters in the country.

“The principles I use in my program are based in large part around what I observed growing up from my mentor, and perhaps one of the greatest horsemen of all time, Olin Armstrong,” Wynne tells The Plaid Horse. “While other professionals may have gotten their young horses to the show ring faster, Olin got them there better.”

WELCOME TO AMERICA

In recent years, Wynne has shifted the type of horse he imports.

“I used to focus on six- to eight-yearolds who were already jumping around 1.20 meter courses,” says Wynne. “But I was finding that it sometimes took longer to ‘re-program’ these jumpers into hunter mode, than it was to just start three- to four-year-olds from scratch.”

Either avenue presents its own set of challenges.

“I work with trusted partners in Europe

who send me videos of prospects that obviously have the talent needed to be a nice hunter,” says Wynne. “But videos don’t always tell the full story about temperament, and typically the riding style in Europe isn’t the traditional light hunter seat and light contact we utilize in the United States. It’s hard to assess how much time will be needed to convert those prospects to the traditional way of going that is rewarded in the hunter ring.”

If a rider decides to go the route of importing a young horse to bring along, Wynne has a few tips to prepare for the journey.

“Europe’s established horse riding stables with higher-level riders are extremely different from the ‘horse farms’ we have in the United States. There’s not as much activity at the horse riding stables in Europe,” says Wynne. “Some of the young imports I’ve had can be on high alert if they can see other horses turned out in fields while they are being ridden in the ring. The facility layouts here are very different from Europe. Again, there’s simply a big difference between Europe’s controlled riding stables versus the horse farms or boarding facilities in the United States.”

Wynne adds, “Ponies also tend to really throw some of the young European

THE EXPERT CHRIS WYNNE

Chris Wynne is a Virginia native who competed as a junior under Pam Baker at Hillcrest Farm. He started his own business, Breckenridge Manor, shortly after graduating from James Madison University in 1986. Wynne and his wife, Sarah Tyndall, now run their highly successful program together. Wynne is also a sought-after USEF ‘R’ judge who has judged the most prestigious shows in the country, including The Devon Horse Show, the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, and the Washington International Horse Show, among others.

imports for a loop—especially if the ponies are paints, have a lot of chrome, or are appaloosas.”

When Wynne’s young imports arrive at his Breckenridge Manor Farm, they are given a few days to adjust and decompress.

“The young ones from Europe tend to be a bit more sensitive to corrections. They always seem to think something might be about to happen. So we spend a lot of time handling them to get them used to the wash rack, blacksmith, and being turned out,” says Wynne.

“My barn manager, Angela Bievre, does a great job assessing their behavior and knowing exactly how each one needs to be handled. If we have one that’s still nervous after a few days, we might tack it up in the stall. We never hook them up in the cross ties right off the bat. We also don’t stuff ears until the ears have been clipped out so as to not pull on the long ear hairs.”

ODE TO THE ROUND PEN

Wynne finds that establishing a good mouth on a young show prospect is the most important key to success. The young horses from Europe, Wynne notes, are ridden with much more leg to hand connection than the way people typically ride in the States.

“When you start to let go of them, they feel abandoned,” says Wynne.

If a young horse needs to learn how to carry itself without constant connection, Wynne turns to his best friend—the round pen. The round pen serves a lot of great purposes. Wynne’s round pen is 72’ in diameter. Horses are never chased in the round pen or made to gallop. Wynne lets them canter at ease. The round pen work pays off well for the horses that might need to lunge for a few minutes at the horse show.

“Armstrong was the first professional to really utilize the round pen for a variety of training purposes with show hunters,” says Wynne. “I canter horses in the round pen a lot to help them learn to balance without a rider holding their mouth.

The round pen is the litmus test for Wynne to determine when his young horses are ready for the next step. “The round pen acts as a comfort zone for young horses. I make sure they are strong

PHOTOS: COURTESY CHRIS WYNNE; SHAWN MCMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY (BOTTOM LEFT)

“Five-year-old horses are like 20-year-old humans. They can be wild and make poor choices. The horses that are nine and ten years old are like 40-year-old humans. They tend to have life figured out.”

—CHRIS WYNNE

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Crack, Harbor Master, and Superlative—three horses Wynne imported from Europe as youngsters and brought up through the ranks

and balanced, jumping small jumps in the round pen before I move them to the big ring,” says Wynne.

When the youngsters graduate to Wynne’s large outdoor ring, he very slowly incorporates cantering random single jumps into the horse’s daily flatwork.

“In the course of a horse’s daily exercise, I won’t start jumping until they are rideable,” says Wynne. “If they are quiet and relaxed, I’ll jump single after single—maybe the ins of some lines, maybe the outs of some lines. When they relax and take a deep breath, I’ll go to the next step.”

When the horses are relaxed and confident enough to start jumping full lines, Wynne always practices the add step. And logically, after this becomes routine and boring for the young horses, he will start practicing lines and courses on the real step.

Some riders may get a bit nervous

when it’s time to introduce a combination to their younger show horses. Wynne actually finds the combinations to be one of the easier parts of the show course for young horses.

“I will introduce combinations at home by doing gymnastics. When done correctly, young horses tend to be quite relaxed and patient through gymnastics at home—I often won’t even introduce cantering combinations to them until we are at the horse show,” says Wynne. “Combinations tend to hold their focus and require them to pay attention a bit more than a regular line.”

HORSE SHOW DRESS REHEARSAL

Wynne is very methodical in making sure young horses are exposed to all the elements they will experience at a horse show. His ring is decorated with lots of banners, and he uses colorful jumps with

overflowing flower boxes that mimic what the young horses will need to jump at shows.

In addition to starting young horses, Wynne and fellow Breckenridge Manor Farm rider/trainer Sarah Tyndall are often teaching lessons to their junior and amateur riders while young horses are being schooled in the ring. This helps get the young horses used to the commotion and traffic that they will encounter at shows.

Wynne purposefully built his outdoor ring next to the road to acclimate horses to vehicle traffic. His horses observe a lot of action in everyday life at home. There are often families at picnic tables around the ring, kids playing with dogs outside the ring, or jackets and coolers hanging on the fence around the ring.

Young horses at Breckenridge Manor Farm become very used to noisy environments quite quickly, as Wynne’s farm is located near the Oceana Naval Air Station and an antique airplane museum. Furthermore, Wynne’s farm is in a rural farming community where crop dusters often fly overhead.

When it’s time to head off to the show, Wynne is careful to introduce the show environment slowly. Oftentimes, the young horses who ship to the show on Mondays or Tuesdays will get to go home on Thursday afternoon once they are either done showing, or have seen enough from their maiden “field trip” to a show. This keeps their brains fresh, so they don’t sour on horse show life, living in stalls for days at a time.

SLOW AND STEADY

Wynne emphasizes that riders can’t make a quick judgment on how a young horse is going to turn out.

“We see talent and get in a hurry. There’s so much more that needs to be done,” says Wynne. “Some of my most successful horses to date were major challenges when they were five and six years old. I kept thinking that I’d really messed up by purchasing them. But through slow and steady training, they turned out to be some of my top horses to date when they were nine and ten years old.”

“Five-year-old horses are like 20-yearold humans. They can be wild and make poor choices. The horses that are nine and ten years old are like 40-year-old humans. They tend to have life figured out,” says Wynne with a laugh.

“The round pen acts as a comfort zone for young horses. I make sure they are strong and balanced, jumping small jumps in the round pen before I move them to the big ring.”

—CHRIS WYNNE

EXPERT

Wynne on Grace Owens’ Superlative at the 2022 Washington International Horse Show

PHOTO: SHAWN McMILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSE

a school horse, it’s my job to teach people how to ride.”

great pride in giving riding lessons, moves to a new barn that’s full of he begins to doubt himself and his world—all while his rider is doing story of self-acceptance and friendages, Good Boy, Eddie captures the we form with animals, and what about ourselves along the way.

GOOD BOY, EDDIE

By Rennie Dyball

Order your copy at theplaidhorse.com/books

CHAPTER 1: NEW BARN

Up, FLOP. Up, FLOP. Up, FLOP.

“That’s it, you’re starting to get it: Up, down. Up, down. Up, down. That’s how you post the trot,” says the instructor. “But try to sit more lightly on Eddie and not come crashing down like a sack of potatoes, okay?”

I’m teaching my first lesson at New Barn and things are going pretty well. I am a school horse, and it’s my job to teach people how to ride. The instructor, Melissa (she’s the person who teaches the lesson with me), is standing in the middle of the ring while I trot around her in a big circle. The way my rider flops down in my saddle doesn’t hurt, it’s just a little uncomfortable. But I can tell that she’s new to riding, so it’s fine with me. We go around and around the ring. There are walls on every side to keep the wind out. Wooden beams crisscross the high ceiling and I think I can see some birds’ nests tucked up in the corners. Before I came here to this New Barn, I taught lots of riding lessons at a place much bigger than this one. I was one of about fifteen school horses back at the Old Barn. I had so many riders I

EDDIE DYBALL

RENNIE DYBALL

Good Boy, Good Boy,

eventually lost count! I really liked it back at Old Barn and I’m not sure why I had to leave, especially because I thought I was good at my job.

My new rider—Melissa keeps saying “Kennedy,” so I suppose that’s her name—was very nice to me in my stall when we were getting ready for the lesson, chatting the whole time. She smelled like soap and flowers. I don’t know exactly what she was talking about, but she had a lot to say. And I was happy to listen.

You might be surprised to know that horses understand about seven to ten spoken words. I call them spoken words, rather than English words, because the people I know speak more than one language. I personally know nine words. But the really great thing is that I don’t need a whole lot of words to communicate with people because I can interpret so many emotions. I get body language, too, and I always know kindness when I feel it. Basically, I understand much more than people think.

The specifics vary from horse to horse, but I personally understand all the following words when they are said aloud by people:

entirety. I love a good boy, Eddie. We walk a lap around the ring before Kennedy steers me to the center. Melissa pats my head. Gallagher, one of the horses who gets turned out in the paddock with me, is also in the ring now. His lesson is about to start. We give each other a look, like a changing of the guard.

It’s his turn now to take care of his rider. I love what I do, but I’m still a bit relieved when the lesson is done. It’s hard work to keep a rider safe. Also, the end of the lesson means I get a nice brushing, and sometimes a carrot.

gripping the saddle with both hands as she allows her body to slink down to the ground. When her feet hit the dirt, she stumbles back a few steps as she regains her balance. I may not be very big for a horse, but it’s a long way down when you’re not very big for a person.

Kennedy gives me a big pat on my neck. It was a good first lesson. Melissa leads me out of the ring, and we walk outside on the way back to my stall. An evening breeze rustles the leaves on the trees all around us. I watch as a few of them float lazily to the ground.

I think I’m going to like this place.

When you take the words that Melissa just said to Kennedy, for example, all I really got out of that was trot. So, I kept trotting. Melissa’s voice also sounded kind and encouraging, which are good signs that I should continue what I’m doing; that I’m helping my rider learn.

As I walk past Gallagher, I wish him good luck. Horses don’t communicate out loud the way people do, but I can hear what other horses are telling me, and they can hear what I tell them, especially once we get to know each other. People don’t pick up on this, of

I also know the meaning of two sounds that aren’t technically words. I know that the clucking sound—when people suck down tight on their tongue and then release it—means to move forward. If I’m already moving forward, then the “cluck” means to go faster. (I’ve come to learn that people can mean more than one thing based on a single sound. It gets a little confusing.) I also know the sound of someone shaking my grain in a feed bucket, which means it’s time to come into the barn to eat.

ALL of us know that sound, even from two paddocks away.

I feel pressure as my rider pulls on the reins, drawing the metal bit back into the corners of my mouth. I slow from a trot to a walk before I even hear Melissa say whoa.

“Good boy, Eddie,” she says with a laugh. Now that, I understood in its

course. If they did, we’d all understand each other with a whole lot less fuss! Horses do “speak” to each other from time to time, but mostly it’s just listening and feeling. If you ask me, I think people could probably benefit from less talking and more feeling.

Horses use our bodies, too, to show what we are thinking. People can usually decipher our body language, if they’re paying attention. Pinned ears means we’re angry, and ears perked forward means we’re concentrating on something. One or both ears cocked gently back means we’re listening.

It all seems much easier than the way people communicate.

Kennedy takes her feet out of the stirrups and swings one leg over the back of my saddle. Melissa is taking her through the steps of dismounting. Next, Kennedy slides down my left side,

Rennie Dyball is the co-author of the Show Strides novel series and managing editor for The Plaid Horse magazine. Rennie grew up riding school horses and now shows on the A circuit in the adult hunter and equitation divisions. She hopes that Eddie will remind readers of all the “schoolies” they’ve known and loved. Learn more about Rennie at renniedyball.com.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE PLAID HORSE AND RENNIE DYBALL

I can interpret so many emotions. I get body language, too, and I always know kindness when I feel it. Basically, I understand much more than people think.

Open to high school seniors graduating in 2024 and all current college and trade school students, the scholarship has awarded over $15,000 to students pursuing higher education.

DEADLINE: March 31, 2024

To apply, visit theplaidhorse.com/education

Lizzy Schulz Gold winner

Delainee Ellsworth Silver winner

Hayden Center

Bronze winner

THE PLAID HORSE QUESTIONNAIRE WITH Jessica

• COMPETES IN: Amateur-Owner Hunters

• SHOW MANAGER: The Maryland Summer Classic and the Maryland Horse and Pony Show

• HOMETOWN: Poolesville, MD

I am most proud of my husband Alan for the business he has built and his course designing success. • I would most like to improve on my accuracy riding to the jumps. I am very hit or miss.

• I’d be lost without gum in my tack trunk and hind jumping boots in my ring bag.

• I think the biggest misconception about our sport is that everyone who participates is wealthy.

• My favorite horse book is Horse by Geraldine Brooks.

• My favorite non-horse book is a tie between Verity by Colleen Hoover and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.

• Being a horse show manager is about making exhibitors happy with kindness, empathy, common sense, hospitality, a great horse show staff, and good prizes.

• The most challenging part of running a horse show is the overhead costs.

On Mondays, you’ll find me at my computer working for Cargill Animal Nutrition. • I sometimes wish I had the time to learn to ski without the fear of breaking every bone in my body. • I’m afraid of poor health. • Something I say ten times a day is “for fox sake.” But “fox” isn’t the actual word I use.

• One of my greatest show ring victories was 2015 WIHS Adult Hunter Finals win on Davenport (owned by Dani DiPietro) when the show was still downtown. “Dylan” was such a showman and really shined in that kind of atmosphere! • Women in our sport are tough as nails.

• Working amateurs in our sport are exhausted.

• One of the best horse names I’ve ever heard is Best Of.

• My absolute favorite show is Keswick Hunt Horse Show.

• The horse person I most admire is: my late godmother, Sally Lamb.

• My motto is: I have two mottos that I love. The first one is: “Choices have consequence. Make wise choices. And my second one is: “Proper planning prevents poor performance.”

MY BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR YOUNG RIDERS IS:

You get out of this sport what you put into it .

I am very open about the fact that I really struggle with juniors who are on their phones ad nauseum, as opposed to hand-grazing their horses, taking care of their horses, or sitting at the show rings or warm-up ring WATCHING AND LEARNING! Riding a horse is one of the greatest privileges in the world. Absorb all the knowledge you can.

“We use NibbleNets exclusively in our stalls and round pens. I love the XL size. We fill them twice a day and almost feed a bale of alfalfa hay a day. We have young Thoroughbreds, all right off the track, who can be hard on things. These last unlike any other product!”

—JESSICA REDMAN Owner/Trainer, Benchmark Sport Horses

Photos by Carmen Elisa Franco

From The Plaid Horse managing editor Rennie Dyball, a picture book that encourages kids to accept and celebrate ALL bodies …

Rennie is the co-author of Show Strides with Piper Klemm, competes in the adult amateur hunter and equitation divisions, and is a passionate believer that all bodies are good bodies.

What are three things about your attitude and mindset that you can control as you look ahead to Fall finals?

PraisetheofMonth

“CB is the ultimate horseman—he is all about the horse and its well-being. He can ride with the best of them—inside and outside the show ring.”

—Susie Schoellkopf, USEF “R” judge

Split Rock Portland I & II

AUGUST 2-6 & 9-13, 2023

PORTLAND, OR

PHOTOS: WINSLOW PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO GALLERY

It Happens!

COLLEEN BROMBACH

A couple of years ago I was showing a horse that was difficult. The handy was the first round of the day. The course started with a trot fence at the top of the ring. He warmed up really well, so I had a little hope that it might go okay.

When I went too slow to the trot jump, he leaned on the bit… and dragged me over the trot fence. At that point I knew I was in big trouble and was going to struggle with control the whole way around. If we made it all the way around. He dragged me to and over jump two.

Heading to jump three, I just tried to hang on. Jump three to four was a bending line to the right and when this horse stopped he would go left. He jumped three and started to run to four, and that’s when I knew it was all over. We were a stride away from jump four and he slammed the breaks on and ducked left, pitching me off and into the standard [and] I caught my leg on the jump cup.

Twenty stitches later, I was back at the horse show, buying a new pair of breeches.”

I was about to compete my young green horse in the Hampton Classic, the first time I moved him up to the three-foot. We were so ready. So, the day before, we took a nice, relaxing trail ride.

I had to open a gate so I dismounted and I climbed up the gate to get back on…and a horse fly bit him on the rear right as I swung my leg over. I got on to thin air. Knocked myself out on the ground and he stood over me, sniffing me until I came to.

And that was the end of my Hampton Classic dreams for that young horse.”

Hear more It Happens moments on the #Plaidcast at theplaidhorse.com/listen

We all make mistakes. But horse people, as a group, aren’t always the best at handling them. So TPH reached out to some top riders to share their own show ring bloopers to prove, once and for all, that mistakes really do happen to the best of us!

SARAH MASLIN NIR

ANNIE BOLLING

My children’s jumper, a black mare, was very special. I had a super year on her—we had done the inaugural Children’s Jumper team event in Georgia, and had an overall great season so we felt really positive about going to Children’s Jumper Finals at Washington.

She had never stopped in her entire life and she was never spooky. But we cantered up to the first jump and she said, ‘No, thank you.’ Nothing like that had happened before with her—she was just so reliable. So I cantered back up to the jump again, and she said, ‘No, thank you,’ again, and that was it.

We had all these expectations and had spent all this money to get to Washington from south Alabama, and my trainer had come up that year. I think that was a really valuable lesson because I was there taking care of my horse. I went back to the barn, I iced her legs, put her back on the truck to Prince George’s, and it was kind of an ‘Oh, well’ moment.

I was lucky to have parents and a trainer that weren’t going to dwell on it. Horses have a mind of their own. It’s a moment I will never forget— I went all the way to Washington for one class and didn’t get over the first jump.”

PHOTO: ANDREW RYBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

THE HORSE IN POSITIVE TENSION

Harnessing Equine Kinetic Energy for Top Performance

BY STEFAN STAMMER

Reprinted with permission from Trafalgar Square Books

DEVELOPMENT OF POWER

In contrast to human beings, the movement patterns of a horse are that of a four-legged prey animal from the steppe. As a quadruped, the horse has been equipped by nature with the ability to elastically engage and flex his haunches. Tendons, muscles, and bones are organized so as to support each other, once they have “sprung open”—think of an umbrella—and are in working mode. They are then actively arched. Complex fascial systems connect the individual structures and permeate them. The haunches function as catapults: they store the horse’s movement energy during the supporting phase of the stride, when the horse sets his foot down, and then convert this energy into forward movement. This enables the horse to always access his maximum performance ability within this catapult system. The limits of his performance ability are defined by the elastic force of the tendons and the fascial system inside and outside the muscles.

To understand complex systems, it’s best to start thinking in concepts. I would like to introduce a conceptual framework that makes it possible to appropriately record and depict the basic movements of a horse.

The central components of this conceptual framework, which can be

applied to any kind of equine movement, are the development and transmission of power.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF POWER IN DETAIL

How is the movement energy of the horse actually created? How is it that a foal, barely up on his legs for the first time, is able to canter with the herd at full speed when necessary? As asked previously, what do I have to work on over the next four to five years, if a four-year-old horse can already jump higher than an international course set at the maximum height allowed by the governing body? Can the extended trot of a four-year-old

horse, out in the field, be at all improved in preparation for performance in the dressage arena? How is it possible that my back yard horse developed a tendon injury or arthritis in his back or hocks, even though I only rode him on trails, and he was deliberately started late and never exposed to heavy work?

A CATAPULT IN THE LEGS

Scientists have been interested in the generation of movement energy in human athletes for decades. In the process, they have used nature as a reference to better understand certain phenomena in humans. What is the ideal ratio of different muscular structures in

The functional muscle chains in the horse’s legs gather and store movement energy in the supporting leg phase …

PHOTO: ANDREA EHRET

THE PLAID HORSE

proportion to each other? Are there other systems that contribute to the development of movement energy? A kangaroo, for example, has approximately the same muscle mass and muscle structure as a red deer, but its development of power when jumping is much higher in relation to its weight. A kangaroo can jump up to 45 feet (almost 14 meters)! What causes this difference in ability?

To examine the phenomenon of elastic energy originating in the tendons, Finnish sports scientist Paavo Komi conducted special studies in the 1980s.

In the course of his research, surgeons attached measuring strips and fiber optic cables to the Achilles tendons of volunteer student athletes, to collect precise data about their movement patterns. The results were just as revolutionary as they were plausible.

Long elastic structures of tissue store energy during the supporting leg phase through stretching, which is immediately made available to power movement. They function like rubber bands. The quality of the rubber band is genetically determined, and ultimately a decisive criterion for the performance ability of the body. African runners, whose specialty—genetically speaking—is long-distance running, do not have more or longer calf muscles than anyone else. On the contrary, they have significantly longer tendons, and therefore shorter calf muscles, on average, than their competitors. The elastic energy

stemming from those long tendons makes them more resistant to fatigue.

The British zoologist Robert McNeill Alexander from the University of Cambridge precisely described these principles in his book Elastic Mechanisms in Animal Movement (Cambridge University Press, 1988). Now, it’s possible to understand that the horse generates substantial parts of his movement energy from the elastic structures of his tendon and muscle systems. New studies have expanded the possibilities by demonstrating the elasticity of fascial tissue.

LEFT: The mighty muscles of hind legs act like “catapults”

BELOW: The kangaroo’s “catapult” is one of the most effective in the world of mammals

THE SECRET OF FASCIAL STRUCTURES

Fascia are tissues that enclose and permeate every muscle fiber, fiber bundle, muscle, and muscle group in the body like a three-dimensional cobweb. They are an important element of effortless energy transmission in the horse, as they connect the individual muscle chains of the legs with the torso, in addition to connecting the different movement centers of the body with each other. New research around this highly elastic and dynamic tissue immensely expands the possibilities for the tendons’ catapult effect. Fascial systems have a significant impact on the transmission of movement energy; additionally, they transfer information and transport oxygen.

HIGHLY EFFICIENT

The construction of a horse’s legs is perfectly adapted to effortless forward movement at higher speed. This tour de force of nature guarantees that the natural enemies of all grazing quadrupeds of the steppe do not always emerge victorious, if it comes down to a chase of life and death—although they undoubtedly reach higher speeds over a shorter time than their prey. The outcome is decided in approximately the first 10 feet (3 meters). If the horse survives those 10 feet, then he is at an advantage, since he needs a lot less energy to maintain his speed than his four-legged pursuer. The “gas tank” of a tiger becomes emptier with every

IMAGES: ANDREA EHRET (TOP); STEFAN STAMMERS (LEFT, TOP ROW); JEANNE KLOEPFER

… and then propel the horse forward, through a catapult effect

jump forward; it has to decide whether its limited physical resources might better be used to hunt a slower animal. The catapult effect created by the legs of horses, however, is at its most efficient at a fast run and literally catapults their bodies forward, consuming relatively little energy. Therefore, only injured or weak animals that cannot react or tire quickly are in danger, in the wild.

PERFORMANCE CAN BE BOUGHT ...

Horses, as precocial animals, have structures that equip foals with astonishing movement potential from birth. As a result, the maximum performance ability of a young horse is not determined by the degree of training of his muscles, but by the genetic foundations of his “catapult systems.” This includes the elasticity of his tissue, the lengths of his bones, and the angles of his joints.

This means the equation for the young horse is: ideal elasticity plus ideal lever systems result in maximum performance. In other words, for horses, maximum performance ability is genetically predetermined and can only partially be influenced by training.

That is why the maximum performance ability of a horse has to be

primarily bred or bought—the effect of athletic training is only ever secondary!

... BUT TRAINING IS A SKILL

A fast racehorse is immediately fast, a good jumper can jump very high very quickly, and a dressage horse does or does not have outstanding gaits. Why, then, is years-long training needed at all? The answer is as simple as it is meaningful: Existing power must be steered in new directions, which are controllable for the rider but protect the horse against chronic overload. This is the key and a necessity for any athletic training of a riding horse.

Maximum performance cannot be developed. But pre-existing maximum performance can be directed. Thus, the task of training is to control the transmission of power—that is what distinguishes a horse from a riding horse.

MONEY OR HEALTH?

Looking at the horse’s movement system helps us understand many scenarios we may have seen or experienced at competitions. A top performance horse can be bought. If I drill him with spurs and sharp bits, I can direct his existing elastic force in prescribed directions or teach him tricks. Unfortunately, even

poorly muscled and badly ridden horses can win a competition. The result is short-term success, paid for with money and the horse’s welfare at the same time.

If I buy this top performance horse and have him trained well, it will take a lot longer to develop his movement quality. The trainer has to restructure the foundations of movement in a riding horse and actually strengthen and train the muscles needed. This is the only system that will create success in the long run. But it has a high cost of its own, as this kind of training is time-consuming and expensive.

What makes the difference is the sustainability of this second type of training, which enables the horse to perform well for many years. Above all, this system does not waste the horse’s health, but rather promotes it.

The question now is: Do you give your money to veterinarians, physical therapists, and horse dealers, or to a respectable trainer? The latter is definitely cheaper. But the real reward is a horse that loves what he does and stays sound over many years, in body, mind, and spirit. This does not put vets and physical therapists out of work; it simply shifts their focus, for the well-being of the horse.

SUMMARY

The movement energy of a horse originates in long, elastic tissue structures and is immediately fully available upon birth, essentially without any training. The combination of bones, joints, tendons, and muscles works like a catapult, storing movement energy and transforming it, in a manner similar to a spring, into forward movement. Most importantly of all, the overall system needs tension for the maximum development of performance. The horse’s training transforms the negative tension of a tensed back in flight mode into positive, elastic tension. In the process, muscle chains actively carry the horse’s front and hind ends, due to the rider’s aids. This system differs fundamentally from the movement development of humans, which means what works for human training or therapy does not necessarily work for horses.

For more information or to order the book visit the Trafalgar Square Books webstore at HorseandRiderBooks.com.

Fascial structures permeate the entire body like a three-dimensional cobweb

For more than 100 years, Garrison Forest School riders have been learning selfconfidence, improving their skills, having fun and making friends through our nationally recognized equestrian programs.

Olney Farm Horse Trial

AUGUST 6, 2023 • JOPPA, MD

The Olney Farm Horse Trial (OFHT) is a one-day USEA Area II recognized event that has been running yearly at the historical family farm in Maryland since 1995. A friendly environment that offers Beginner Novice through Modified levels over fields, woods, water, and hills. Olney Farm also hosts an unrecognized event in September.

PHOTOS: AMY FLEMMING-WATERS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO GALLERY

1 Novice Winner Joe Bowersox and Jayda •

2 Beginner Novice Rider Rachel McCumbers and BG Bella Donna • 3 Novice Rider Teresa Martinoli and Loughnatousa King

4 Training Winner Jaclyn Burke and Adara • 5 Starter Winner Lillian Harrod and Aces Zoomin Dude

6 Novice Winner Tyler Burke and Carmella • 7 Beginner Novice Rider Kimberly Crowell and Flash McCaul

“Riding is a bit like the old fable of the tortoise and the hare: slow and steady wins out in the end.”

—GEOFF TEALL

THE INDOORS ISSUE

DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 12, 2023

SHOW STRIDES BOOK 5

PACKER PRESSURE

“CAMERON? Like the Cameron? The barn favorite who wins everything and everyone loves?”

“Yup,” said Tally, laughing at her friend’s wideeyed expression.

“Tally, this is huge!” said Mac, wrapping her friend up in a hug. Mac’s pony, Joey, nudged the girls with his nose, eager to get in on the celebration.

“I know,” said Tally, bending down to unwrap one of Joey’s polos alongside her friend.

“I’ve never ridden a horse this experienced. It’s going to be weird!”

“It’s going to be awesome,” Mac corrected her. Mackenzie (Mac)

Bennett was Tally’s best friend at the barn. At this point, probably her best friend, period. Mac had arrived about a year ago with Joey, a.k.a. Smoke Hill Jet Set, her partner in the Medium Pony Hunter division. When the girls first met, Tally knew next to nothing about the A circuit, having ridden only in the lesson program and at the barn’s in-house schooling shows. Now, Tally had competed several times at rated shows off the property, spectated at Devon and Pony Finals, and spent many sleepovers with Mac watching live streams and replays of the biggest shows in the country. There was nothing she loved more than immersing herself in the world of horses and showing.

“How was your lesson?” Tally asked.

“Great. Really great, actually,” Mac said, rubbing her chestnut pony’s neck. Joey licked Mac’s hand, in case a treat should materialize there. “But Ryan said he wanted to meet with me and my parents tonight, so I’m not sure what that’s about. How was your lesson?”

“It was good, I rode Obie and then I got on Toots because he was being extra spooky for his rider. I wish I’d known it was my last ride on Obie, though…Ryan has a kid who’s going to lease him. I wish I could have explained to him what’s happening. Or something…” Tally paused. “That sounds stupid right?”

Mac shook her head no, her expression serious.

“I’m so excited for Cam, but it’s still a little hard to move on. Remember when I cried in the porta-potties after I saw Goose at a show?” Goose was a green small pony that Tally helped bring along for Ryan. He got sold over the summer and it wasn’t easy seeing him with his new owner at a show back in September.

“Aw, Tal, that’s what makes you so good at this, though. You really love them,” said Mac.

Order your copy at theplaidhorse.com/books or on Amazon (paperback and Kindle)

“And they love you, too.”

“I hope so,” Tally said with a sigh. “And it’s great for Obie to have a person of his own. Ryan told me it’s one of his newer students who’s going to show in the Long Stirrup.”

A gust of wind whipped down the aisle. Joey raised his head on the cross ties and Mac jogged for the doorway.

“Hold on, everybody!” she called to the horses before sliding the big, heavy door closed. The mood on the aisle calmed down within seconds.

Mac disappeared into the tack room and Tally slipped into Cam’s stall. He was already wearing his blanket for the night but she couldn’t

resist a quick goodbye.

“Hi, sweet boy,” she said. Cam turned to face her. His eyes were big and soft. Tally could feel his kindness, just looking at him.

“I can’t believe I get to ride you for a month. Might even be two,” she said, stroking the horse’s neck. Cam wasn’t super tall—probably 15.3 hands or so, Tally guessed—but he was big through his body. She’d seen him around the barn, of course, but she had very little idea of what he’d be like to ride.

Down the aisle, both Tally and Cam heard the unmistakable swish of grain being dropped into a bucket. It was dinner time. Cam turned away from

Tally and stuck his nose in the feed bucket in the far corner of his stall.

“Well, it’s not there yet, buddy,” Tally said laughing. “Are you reminding us where your dinner should go?”

Cam faced her again. Something about his expression, those huge, soft eyes, filled Tally with affection. She didn’t even know this horse yet, but she already felt a fondness for him. Cam nickered and turned his head toward the sound of the feeding crew, heading in his direction.

“Have a good dinner, Cam,” Tally said, giving him one more pat before heading home.

HORSE SHOWS

Select Champions

STATE COLLEGE CLASSIC

Pennsylvania

Furnace, PA

JUNE 28-JULY 2, 2023

Green Hunter 3’0

Caymus & Debra Lorge

Pre-Adult Equitation

Hollywood’s Eleven & Rennie Dyball

Low Pony Hunter What About Me & Claudia Simpson

Training Jumper 1.0 m

Galante’s Dillion MH & Marguerite Heberle

DEEP RUN HORSE SHOW

Manakin Sabot, VA

JUNE 21-JUNE 25, 2023

Adult Amateur Hunter 50+

Genuine & Katie Meagher

Short Stirrup

Corduroy & Maggie Faulkner

Performance Working Hunter 3’3”

Lemieux & Sarah Tyndall

Low Children’s Hunter

Learn to Fly & Emily Young

BOUMI SHRINERS MOUNTED PATROL

Owings Mills, MD

JUNE 2-JUNE 4, 2022

Children’s Hunter Pony Pitch Perfect & Katie Nelson

USHJA 2’6”

Royelle & Kevin Bruce

Thoroughbred Hunter Cloud Nine & Holly Lohmann Stello

Belfield Morning Hunter Not Negotiable & Madelyn Bobenko

PRINCETON SHOW

JUMPING JUNE I

Princeton, NJ

JUNE 7-JUNE 11, 2023

Adult Equitation

Heartly & Kayla

DeStephanis

Amateur Owner Hunter 3’3”/3’6”

Showtime & Lindsay Juge

Low Adult Amateur Hunter Andante & Paige Blevins

PEL High Childrens/Adult Jumper

Baby Chepetto & Maxine Barile

of myself, my wife, Elizabeth, and our welcome to Winding Way Farm, Dimples Horse Treats.

Winding Way Farm, horses are our passion. Elizabeth and I come from very different equine backgrounds, we both have enjoyed a love of horses childhood. A love that we now enjoy sharing children. Elizabeth is an accomplished horseman years of show experience with Saddlebreds. myself, I was more of a backyard cowboy until I breeding, training and racing thoroughbred now enjoy breeding Friesian horses together, has horses without treats? Not us!

sampling other horse treats, we decided to create a with healthy ingredients, like ground flax supplement that has anti-inflammatory and promotes overall health), beet pulp, and whole grain. In fact, each Dimple treat teaspoon of ground flaxseed. even better is the irresistible aroma and soft texture that allows medication to be hidden in shape without the horse ever being aware! eliminates the guesswork in administering most medicine. It’s so easy anyone can do it!

perfected the recipe, we began sharing our treats with trainers, veterinarians and horse friends with the challenge to find the one horse resist the great taste and smell of Dimples. received very favorable feedback and decided to treats available to all horse lovers in a reusable pail (about 60 treats).

feel good using Dimples Horse Treats as a aid in giving medication or just a special equine friend will love!

order or leave a comment, visit our website Dimpleshorsetreats.com, or call me at (859) 240-9747.

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